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Top-three safety tips for cycling with your young family

August 7, 2018

Before your family has a chance to scream “I’m booooored!” this summer, think about exploring one of York Region’s extensive network of trails and forests by bike.

Cycling is a fun and healthy activity, it's a low-cost way to get around, and it's good for the environment. But before heading out, remember the top three safety tips to keep you, and your loved ones safe.

1. Teach lifelong pedestrian safety skills to your child

Before hoping on a bike, a child should understand basic pedestrian safety. Whether you’re walking together in the neighbourhood, or crossing the road to get to a familiar residence, make sure your young children are always walking with an adult. After all, you are your child’s most important role model for learning pedestrian safety.

2. Wear a helmet

This may be an obvious tip, but countless people are still heading out on their bikes without helmets. Children and youth under 18 are required to wear a helmet when bicycling. Not only can they be fined, but bicycle helmets, when properly fitted and safety certified, can reduce the risk of head and brain injuries by up to 85%.

All bicyclists, regardless of age, can help protect themselves by wearing properly fitting helmets every time they ride.

3. Get the right fit

Not sure which bicycle helmet is the right one to look for? Do your research, and look for a helmet that fits comfortably and meets safety standards. You can visit Ministry of Transportation for more bicycle safety tips.

These top three tips are just the beginning, York Region has some great resources to review, visit Injury Prevention and Cycling for more information.

York Region; bike safety; cycling; family; safety; safety tips; cycling tips; safe cyclingBefore your family has a chance to scream “I’m booooored!” this summer, think about exploring one of York Region’s extensive network of trails and forests by bike. The Regional Municipality of Yorken-USThe Regional Municipality of YorkNews